News 8 www.aftermarketonline.net OCTOBER 2026 More than eight in ten UK drivers trust the repair recommendations made by their garage, with new research highlighting the importance of clear explanations and upfront costs. A survey of 2,000 UK drivers, commissioned by Tempcover, found 83% trusted the recommendation made during their most recent garage visit. Long-standing relationships were particularly important, with 54% of those motorists saying they had used the same garage for years. Transparency also played a significant role, with 44% saying an upfront breakdown of costs helped build confidence and 42% valuing a clear explanation of the fault. Only 5% doubted their garage’s recommendation. Among this group, 46% worried about being overcharged because they lacked the technical knowledge to judge the work themselves, while 17% said the explanation they received was too technical to follow. Cost surprises are another potential issue. Although 78% said their latest bill matched the original quote, a quarter had experienced unexpected costs on previous garage visits, underlining the value of agreeing additional work before continuing. The findings also suggest garages do not necessarily need to compete primarily on price. Reliability and getting the job fixed correctly was the biggest priority for 42% of drivers, compared with 19% who put cost first. For garage owners, the message is straightforward: fix the vehicle properly, explain what’s needed in language the customer understands, be clear about costs and keep them informed if the job changes. Those basics can play an important part in building the longterm loyalty that the research suggests remains central to customer trust. Driver survey highlights what builds garage trust Two ways to support Ben this Christmas Automotive industry charity Ben is encouraging garages and businesses to support its work this Christmas through two festive fundraising activities – taking part in Christmas Jumper Day or buying the charity’s Christmas cards and gifts. Ben’s Christmas Jumper Day takes place on Friday 11 December, although businesses, teams and individuals can choose any day during the month. Garages can sign up, encourage their teams to wear a festive jumper and donate £3 per person. Alternatively, workshops can support Ben by buying its charity Christmas cards to send to customers, suppliers, colleagues, friends or family. Ben has produced Christmas cards featuring the motoring artwork of automotive artist Richard Wheatland for 37 years. This year’s collection includes seven designs, including a new illustration, Winter Service, alongside six previous designs. A range of Christmas gifts is also available. Money raised through both activities will help Ben provide practical, emotional and financial support to people working, or who have worked, in the automotive industry and their families. The charity says demand for its services has increased this year. Between April and June, it recorded 3,463 helpline touchpoints, up 8% year-on-year, while the number of support interventions increased 24% to 2,050. With winter bringing additional pressure from household bills and Christmas spending, Ben is encouraging the automotive community to help it continue supporting people experiencing financial, health and wellbeing difficulties. To support Ben this Christmas, garages can take part in Christmas Jumper Day and donate £3 per person (tinyurl.com/5t4vjc6p), or buy Ben’s Christmas cards and gifts (tinyurl.com/yn38ntaw). Anyone working, or who has previously worked, in the UK automotive industry who needs support can contact Ben’s free and confidential helpline on 08081 311 333 or use its online webchat.
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